Which command authority grants broadest, unified strategic control of military forces across the theater?

• A. Operational Control
• B. Tactical Control
• C. Combatant Command
• D. Administrative Control

Answer: (C)

Combatant Command is the highest level of command authority, giving a Combatant Commander broad, unified control to organize and employ forces across an entire theater. This authority enables strategic planning and coordination across services and components to achieve theater-wide objectives. It goes beyond merely directing operations (which OPCON), directing specific tasks in combat (which TACON), or handling administrative and support functions (which ADCON). So when the question asks for the broadest, unified strategic control across the theater, Combatant Command is the right concept.